WTB: 70 Chevelle - on a budget

[meltdowndan]

Hey all I'm hoping for some help. I've been looking for years for my dream Chevelle 454SS. Came to terms with life and now a baby is on the way so I cannot spend big dough.
I want a driver 70 Chevelle/Malibu would prefer hardtop (no vinyl), little to no rust (or at least no major body work). Would like a floor shift or manual. Engine trans rear end not super important, but would be nice to have 12bolt TH400/m22 396,427or454. But beggars can't be choosers...
My budget is $16-17k... Am I being realistic?

I live in Calgary Alberta, Canada. So the market is bleak and pricey!!
I am traveling next month , san Francisco to San Diego then Las Vegas. So I'll take this time to search for a (my) Chevelle.
Any leads or advise, greatly appreciated - thanks! Dan